What is a CN label and why does it matter?
A CN (Child Nutrition) label is a USDA-verified statement on packaged food products that tells you exactly how much of each meal pattern component a serving provides (e.g., “1 piece = 2 oz equivalent meat/meat alternate + 1 serving grains”). CACFP only credits products with current, valid CN labels for the meal-pattern contribution claimed. Without a CN label or a manufacturer’s product formulation statement (PFS), processed items can’t credit toward your meal pattern.
Why does my CN label say “expired”?
CN labels expire when the manufacturer’s formulation changes or when the USDA’s verification period ends. An expired CN label means the product may no longer credit the way it used to — even if the packaging looks identical to what you bought last year. We see this most often with: Corn Dogs, Steak Fingers, Beef Franks, Meatloaf, Fish Sticks, Chicken Patties, Sausage Pancake on a Stick, Breakfast Pizza, Breakfast Turkey Burritos, Meatballs, and Little Smokies.
If we flag a CN label as expired, you have two options: (1) ask your supplier or manufacturer for the current CN label and send it to us, or (2) substitute a product with a valid current label.
How do you verify the CN labels I send you?
We look them up in the USDA’s CN Label Verification Report Database (the official USDA Food & Nutrition Service tool). This database confirms whether the CN # on your label is currently in good standing. If we can’t verify it there, we’ll ask you to resubmit a clearer image or contact the manufacturer.
How do I submit my CN labels?
Take a close-up photo of each label individually, with the CN number clearly visible. We can’t process labels that are blurry, distant, or photographed alongside other documents. Once you send them, we verify each one and update your menu approval status in MyFoodCloud.
What happens if I serve a product with an expired CN label?
That meal component may be disallowed during your administrative review. The simplest fix is to verify all CN labels at the start of each program year — and any time you switch brands or product variations.